Celebrating Life's Finest Moments Since 1858
Since 1858, James Porter & Son has been at the heart of Glasgow’s renowned Argyll Arcade, offering exceptional craftsmanship, fine jewellery, and luxury timepieces for over 165 years. As a proud family business, we have built a legacy of expertise, integrity, and passion for the world’s finest watches and jewellery. From our humble beginnings as a small jeweller to becoming one of Scotland’s most respected award winning independent retailers, our history is woven with tradition, innovation, and a dedication to excellence.
Explore our story and discover how James Porter & Son continues to set the standard for luxury in Glasgow and beyond.
1858-1887
The Foundations of Excellence
James Porter & Son Jewellers was founded in 1858 by James Porter, a skilled watchmaker who began his apprenticeship with Breckenridge Watch and Clockmakers in Kilmarnock. At 21, James moved to Glasgow, establishing himself as a respected figure in the watch trade. Working from various locations in Glasgow city centre, on Gordon and Buchanan Street, he built a reputation for quality craftsmanship. Eventually, he opened his own store at 134 Argyll Street, but a city bank failure forced him to sell the premises. Undeterred, in May 1887, James purchased 25 Argyll Arcade—a pivotal moment in the company’s history. This location remains the heart of the business today. A decade later, his son Gabriel joined, marking the beginning of a true family legacy. The store quickly became a trusted name in horology, known for its precision, service, and integrity, qualities that continue to define the brand today.
1905-1928
Expansion and a New Era
In 1905, the business officially became James Porter & Son, reflecting the father-son partnership. As the company flourished, James saw an opportunity to expand. In 1920, he acquired number 26 Argyll Arcade, seamlessly integrating it into the existing store. Just eight years later, in 1928, the business grew once again with the purchase of number 24, establishing a footprint that remains the flagship store nearly a century later. These expansions solidified James Porter & Son as one of Glasgow’s premier jewellers, a cornerstone of the historic Argyll Arcade—a location that had initially opened in 1827 in the Parisian shopping arcade style. While today the Arcade is known as Scotland’s jewellery quarter, it was pioneers like James Porter who helped establish its legacy. Throughout this era, the business became synonymous with fine watches and jewellery, setting the stage for future generations to uphold its commitment to excellence.
1963-2007
The Evolution of a Family Business
By 1963, James Porter & Son had grown into one of Scotland’s most respected jewellers. The acquisition of 12–14 Argyll Arcade further cemented its status, allowing the company to refine its focus on diamond jewellery, engagement rings, and luxury timepieces. As styles evolved and customer preferences changed, the business adapted while maintaining its dedication to quality and tradition. The watch industry saw dramatic advancements, and James Porter & Son became known for its carefully curated selection of fine Swiss timepieces. During this period, the firm remained family-run, with knowledge and expertise passed down through generations. By the early 2000s, the business had firmly established itself as a leading destination for those seeking exceptional craftsmanship, whether for special occasions or investment pieces. The dedication to personal service and expert advice remained paramount, ensuring that each customer felt valued—a philosophy that continues to shape the business today.
2007-2021
A New Generation
In 2007, Simon Porter took over the business from his father, Douglas, marking the start of a new chapter for James Porter & Son. While upholding the company’s deep-rooted traditions, Simon brought a fresh perspective, ensuring the brand remained relevant in a fast-changing jewellery and watch industry. The business adapted to modern trends, incorporating contemporary designs while maintaining its classic offerings. Throughout this period, James Porter & Son strengthened its partnerships with renowned watchmakers and expanded its selection of fine jewellery. The commitment to high-quality craftsmanship, expert service, and customer trust remained unwavering. While many heritage jewellers struggled in an evolving retail landscape, the business thrived, thanks to its ability to blend tradition with innovation. Simon’s leadership reinforced the brand’s status as a key player in Glasgow’s luxury retail scene, always striving to offer customers a unique and memorable experience.
2022 and beyond
Growth and Innovation
In 2022, Simon Porter led another significant expansion, launching James Porter & Son’s dedicated watch boutique at 38–39 Argyll Arcade. This new space showcases an exceptional range of luxury timepieces and fine jewellery, catering to watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. The boutique houses an impressive selection of 28 prestigious watch brands, from timeless classics like Michel Herbelin to high-end names such as Czapek, alongside a carefully curated collection of sporting and heritage brands. This latest venture highlights the business’s ongoing commitment to excellence, providing customers with an immersive and personalised shopping experience. Over 165 years since its founding, James Porter & Son continues to evolve while staying true to its values of craftsmanship, quality, and service. As the business moves forward, it remains a beacon of expertise and passion in the world of fine jewellery and horology—proudly celebrating life’s finest moments for generations to come.
Keeping it in the Family
Now coming in to the 6th generation, Simon & Rachel's son Matthew, is showing a keen interest in following in the family footsteps. Having completed the world renowned GIA Diamond grading course in 2024, alongside his degree from Glasgow University.
We are excited to see what the future holds for this 6th generation.
24-26 Argyll Arcade
Since 1887
12-14 Argyll Arcade
Since 1963
38-39 Argyll Arcade
Since 2022
HISTORY OF ZODIAC
X ONE TREE PLANTED
Since our founding more than a century ago, Zodiac have dedicated themselves to the precision and craftsmanship associated with Swiss timekeeping — with a rebellious spirit. Consistently pushing the limits of design innovation, evolving their style and driving their timepieces to become more technical and dynamic.
Their pursuit to create quality, precision Swiss watches made to be worn and lived in has been the fuel for some of their most beloved collections. As they create the next generation of tool, dive and dress watches, the engineers and artisans are already hard at work challenging boundaries and breaking rules.
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